How Plastic particles Terrorize the Air and Lodge into your Lungs

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How Plastic particles Terrorize the Air and Lodge into your Lungs

October 14, 2019

How Plastic particles Terrorize the Air and Lodge into your Lungs | photo credit: Stephen Leonardi @stephenleo1982 @unsplash

How Plastic particles Terrorize the Air and Lodge into your Lungs | Healthbiztips

Healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Microplastic or tiny plastic particles has polluted not just the land and sea, but also the air we breath. How come this happen?

Let's take a look at a common household: plastic storage boxes, food containers, water bottles, dishware, pipes, laptop case, device charger, children toys, and many others. Seems all harmless right? Although, they seem solid enough to contain themselves, in the presence of heat, friction, and even light, small plastic particles can dislodge and mix with room air.

Since these microscopic plastic particles are easily suspended, studies found that air indoor has a relatively higher concentration of these microscopic plastic particles than the outside. You know what that means? Plastic pollutes your supposedly safe haven.


That's not all, we have a lot more plastic than we realize. Did you know that synthetic fabric dominates the clothing and textile industry to such an extent that it comprises more than half our garmens, but guess what's in it--plastic! Polyester is notably the main offender. Turns out plastic is winning all sorts of race because it has such outstanding qualities, namely it's cheap but durable. Chances are, you're wearing one without even realizing it.

If you look closer into those fibers that make up you clothe, they don't all seem willing to stay there, do they?

Let's turn to personal care products. Yes, those stuffs people apply on their skin. Microbeads are plastic particles which are even smaller than microplastics and they are added to facial and skincare products like exfoliating facial wash, soap, and toothpaste.

While a microplastic is less than 5 millimeters in size,  a microbead is less than 1 millimeter.

Once microscopic plastic is inhaled by a human, it can lodge deep inside the lungs, however it can not be removed by the mere act of exhalation. These plastic particles can cause a range of health problems such as the destruction of lung tissues, asthma attack and increased risk of cancer.

Moreover, microplastic can find it's way into the bloodstream, by the same token breathed air is transported into the blood, and end up accumulating in various internal organs.


Plastic is everywhere. We see an emerging era of plastic pollution, an infestation which keeps getting worse as years goes by.

So you see, plastic is indeed in every single one of us and that may very well be the reality if these things aren't regulated enough. With convenience comes dire consequence.

How can we enjoy our stay in this planet without destroying it?

Why ditch red meat in exchange for fish?

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Why ditch red meat in exchange for fish?

October 13, 2019

Why ditch red meat in exchange for fish | Healthbiztips | photo credit: Wesual Click @wesual @unsplash

Why ditch red meat in exchange for fish | Healthbiztips | health blog

Healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan

Since there is an increasing body of evidence that red meat in the diet contributes significantly to premature aging and chronic diseases such as arthritis, asthma, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and heart disease, seeking an alternative protein source in the form of fish is seen as as healthy option.

Here lies the question why fish is widely recognized as a superior food choice?

Perks of a fish dish

To begin with, fatty fish such as tuna and salmon have high amounts of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid which exerts an anti-inflammatory effect that, in contrary to red meat, prevents the onset of health problems mentioned earlier.

Another good reason is fishes mostly have substantially lower content of saturated fats and cholesterol compare to red meat which makes it a suitable meal to prevent the onset of cardiovascular problems such as atherosclerosis.

Among the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids are:

• albacore
• cod
• halibut
• herring
• lake trout
• mackerel
• salmon
• sardines
• snapper
• tuna

How much fish should you eat? Based on the recommendation set by the American Heart Association, a serving of 2 fatty fish each week is sufficient. That's roughly 3.5 ounce cooked, or about three quarters of a cup flaked fish.

However, it is worth contemplating that the nutritional and caloric value of all fish is not equal. Take for example milkfish and tilapia, both of which have elevated amount of saturated fats.


Issues and concern

On the other hand, the safety of consuming aquatic animals has become a global concern for the past decades due to sea pollution, particularly that of plastic, mercury, and the carcinogen PCBs.

You wouldn't want plastic as your meal, however our sea nowadays is notoriously infested by small bits of plastic or microplastics which in turn is devoured by fishes. Now, if you closely into the foodchain then you'll know where that microplastic can find it's way, namely your gut and organs.

Plastic particles have been found even in the deepest part of the ocean which reflects just how bad marine life has been infested.

Another serious affliction is that caused by the mercury, a chemical pollutant that is detrimental to the formation of a fetus, neurological development, and functioning of organs. Thus, U.S. FDA warns regarding fishes that have high levels of mercury which pregnant women and children should avoid, namely:

• king mackerel
• shark
• swordfish
• tilefish

Instead, seafoods with low levels of mercury are:

• catfish
• salmon
• tuna

The changing times have greatly affected  the quality of fish we consume. Sounds scary?

Let's look back into the red meat. The administration of hormone to cow with the intent of increasing their body build and milk production is still widely debated, although regulating bodies claim that the levels injected into these animals are within acceptable range.

Does paraben increases the risk of breast cancer?

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Does paraben increases the risk of breast cancer?

October 07, 2019

Does paraben increases the risk of breast cancer? | Healthbiztips | photo credit: Pawel Czerwinski @pawel_czerwinski

Does paraben increases the risk of breast cancer? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Paraben, a common additive found in beauty and personal care products, has been associated with an increased risk of development of breast cancer, despite this, it continues to be in widespread usage.

Breast cancer is one of the leading cause of deaths across the globe. In fact, it's prevalence is alarmingly notorious among women, along side skin cancer.

Did you know that our body can easily absorb paraben even through an intact skin. This preservative can leach into the blood and be detectable in the urine of those who are exposed to it. Furthermore, samples from amniotic fluid revealed that this chemical can even seep into the unborn child.

How paraben works is that it disrupts the hormone balance in the body as it closely resembles the property of estrogen which in turn enhances the growth of cancer cells. Despite the fact that paraben is a languid estrogen copycat, laboratory studies shows that it still exerts the ability to hasten the growth of tumor.

There are several types of parabens which includes butylparaben and methylparaben.

Even with the presence of studies pointing out the detrimental effect of paraben on a person's health, companies still continues to include it in various items common folks use in their everyday life because of it's practical and cost effective purpose which is to increase the manufactured items' shelf life.

In  addition,  paraben isn't just present in the things a woman commonly apply on her face or skin, but it can be among the ingredients found in processed foods and medications.

Taking these information into consideration, it is the duty of a well-informed consumer to make the right choice. To avoid the health repercussions involved with using paraben containing products, opt for paraben free cosmetic and beauty products instead. Shift to all-natural beauty and cosmetic brand. Make sure you read a products label and skim over it's ingredients.


Resources:

Gray, J. M., Rasanayagam, S., Engel, C., & Rizzo, J. (2017). State of the evidence 2017: an update on the connection between breast cancer and the environment. Environmental health : a global access science source, 16(1), 94. doi:10.1186/s12940-017-0287-4

Pan, S., Yuan, C., Tagmount, A., Rudel, R. A., Ackerman, J. M., Yaswen, P., … Leitman, D. C. (2016). Parabens and Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Ligand Cross-Talk in Breast Cancer Cells. Environmental health perspectives, 124(5), 563–569. doi:10.1289/ehp.1409200

Does wearing high heels boosts confidence?

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Does wearing high heels boosts confidence?

September 02, 2019

Does wearing high heels boosts confidence? | Healthbiztips | photo credit: Valery Sysoev @valerysysoev @unsplash

Does wearing high heels boosts confidence? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health | beauty | psychology

Individuals striding in high heels gives bystanders the impression of fearlessness and empowerment, but does standing in a high platform really build confidence or is it just an illusion created by assuming such tall stature?

Yes, walking in high heels does give certain people confidence. Wearing high heels changes the body's center of gravity, so in order to be able to walk in high heels, one has to assume a good posture in which the chest is held out, tummy is held in, and the head is positioned in line with the spine. This obliges the wearer to stand straight which many may find attractive and professional.

In a way, standing in high heels commands it's wearer to take on a high power pose. The highly criticized research by Amy Cuddy reveals that adopting a high power pose, in which the individual stands or sits straight with hands spread out to assume a dominant posture even for as little as 2 minutes can have a significant biochemical effect on a person, such that it increases the level of testosterone while decreasing the stress hormone cortisol. This hormonal changes makes the person feel positive and less anxious.

If you want to grab attention, then high heels is your friend. A study reveals that the higher the heels women wear, the more they get noticed, particularly by men. Wearing heels is fashion statement that speaks height, attractiveness, and femininity.

I did mention that high heels does indeed increases the confidence of "certain people" because high heels is absolutely not a confidence builder for all type of people. For example, take the case of a woman whose height is 5'10" and imagine how she might feel in a crowd when she wears an incredibly high heels. Indeed, she would really stand out in a weird way.

Let's not forget that wearing high heels regularly can have negative repercussions because it increases the risk of musculoskeletal problem and injury as it puts the feet in an unnatural position.

In my opinion, walking in high heels is a complicated stance, especially to those who are not used to it. I know a person who got so embarrassed for falling in a high heel that she vow never to wear it again as it certainly did an awful impact on her confidence. On the hand, I know a woman who gains incredible confidence when she's on high heels. Whether or not wearing high heels will increase one's confidence still depends on the preference and mindset of the one whose wearing it.

How to Improve Self-esteem

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How to Improve Self-esteem

September 02, 2019

How to Improve Self-esteem; photo credit: Bart LaRue @bartlarueeppler @unsplash

How to Improve Self-esteem | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | psychology blog

People with high self-esteem feels a sense of self-worth and respect. Having an affirmative self-image is undeniably a crucial part of a sound psychology.

It's this unconditional self-love many people want more.

While there are factors like upbringing and life events we can't control, there are still ways we can use to build self-esteem.


Accept your self

Self-esteem is an unconditional self-love. You can have all that you've ever wanted in life but still end up having a tiny sense of self-worth. Here's where the mindset of a person comes to play.

In order for you to love yourself, you have to first accept yourself. You have to reflect on certain traits such as your weakness and strengths and recognize them.

Only by accepting those characteristics can you know those characters which you can change and those which you can not.


It's about improvement, not failure

Failure is a normal consequence of trying. Failure, while might seem dire, is often unavoidable. You have to keep in mind that no one is perfect, including you.

It is understandable that there are many who are afraid of committing a mistake, because an error can be fatal.

In theory, mistake is unacceptable, but we live in a world where mistake is a part of reality that we  have to accept and rectify.


Stop comparing
There are a lot of people who tend to compare themselves with others, in which they judge their success base on how far off their achievements are than that of their peers. When a person uses his or her friends achievement as a scale they have to reach in order to gain self-acceptance, then there is no real self-love there.


Purpose

Finding your purpose in life is something that makes mortality worthwhile. What is it that you want to do in your life? Often, finding one's purpose can be tricky and hard.


Think positive

Having a positive outlook in life is an indispensable tool to achieve a good mental health. It's your way of thinking that can ultimately have the most profound impact on your self-esteem.

Directing your thoughts on the positive side of every situation can get you through tough times. On the other hand, if your focus on the negative aspect of events, you can get drained and stressed out.


Grow

Self-esteem is not an unshakeable state of mind. There are life events or traumatic situations that can rattle your self-esteem. Allow yourself time to heal and move on.

In whatever field you choose, it is important to never stop improving yourself despite setbacks.

Physical appearance Impacts Student's Self-esteem

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Physical appearance Impacts Student's Self-esteem

August 29, 2019

Physical appearance Impacts Student's Self-esteem. photo credit: Emma Matthews @unsplash

Physical appearance Impacts Student's Self-esteem | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | psychology blog

A research reveals that student's physical appearance has a tremendous impact on their self-esteem. Looks matter so much that it out-weights academic performance in delivering happiness to the student.

Of course, schools are institutions designed to inculcate new skills and information. It's where you study hard, do school projects, cram on take-home assignments, and endure classes, to which in return, they pay you with metamorphic salary, in the form of intangible grades.

Of course, these "wages" students take home to their parents are important as it certainly does have tangible impact on their old folk's view of their child's present and future prospect.

Grades, in turn, especially when it's really good can build a child's positive self-esteem, but do you know that there is another thing that can give these young people true self-love?

In a school setting, there is a quality that can be far superior than grades in boosting a student's self-esteem--it's physical appearance. Looks matter. If you think about it, it's not that surprising that you value yourself based on how well you look. Heck, even just a single pimple can ruin self-confidence, especially when it's centerpiece.


What is self-esteem?

Each person has a degree to which they value their self, that is what we call self-esteem. A positive self-esteem can be the very thing which makes you love yourself when all the other's don't...well, apart from narcissism.

So, if we want to build a genuine self-confident person, self-esteem is the worst thing to neglect. Sure, focusing on your looks may seem like a superficial reason to love yourself more, but there's no doubt that it is indeed a very good reason.



In fact, a study reveals that a student's self concept of physical appearance has a greater impact than academic performance in having a positive self-esteem, especially among girls. Academic standing and interpersonal bonds still has huge bearing in a student's self-esteem, but this research shows how self-image surpass both.

So, now that we know how a student perceive his or her physical appearance strongly affects self-esteem, should we go about questioning the weird uniform, strict school-approved outfits, or the no-make up policy certain academic institutions have in place?

This is a complicated matter. School policies about grooming and proper attire may have reasonable justifications. For example, schools enforce certain rules to avoid certain kind of foreseeable problems. Often, when a child voices out concern about certain school policies, it is taken by the school as a sign of insubordination that challenges their institution's rules. But, in my experience, I find it helpful when the student council or parents intervene by talking to those encharge of the school.


For years, it has been told that school is a place of learning, but it does have a great influence on shaping one's attitude and perception.


Self-esteem that's reliant upon physical appearance can be the reason why a student persists in wearing lip gloss during class. It is the underlying cause of how a pimple can bring down one's confidence. It's why a nice uniform can make you feel good about yourself. It's why you feel ridiculous underneath that baggy uniform.


Resource:

Baudson, Tanja G et al. “More Than Only Skin Deep: Appearance Self-Concept Predicts Most of Secondary School Students' Self-Esteem.” Frontiers in psychology vol. 7 1568. 18 Oct. 2016, doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2016.01568

Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? | Healthbiztips

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Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? | Healthbiztips

August 02, 2019

Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? | Healthbiztips
photo credit: Erick Tang @erictang2769 @unsplash

Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? | Healthbiztips

@healthbiztips by Arlene Gentallan | health blog

Is do-it-yourself braces foolproof? Let me just tell you that installing braces and dental retainers is the job of a licensed dentist. Now, tell me when was the last time you were good at being an orthodontic? If the answer is never, then you're safety is already jeopardized. This stuff is absolutely unsafe.

I'm not saying you shouldn't trust yourself. After all, we do have to love our self more. You may argue that there is a step by step instruction that will actually help you with the entire process. I hate to say this, but that instruction you rely on is not the actual stuff dentists do in real life.

I know Facebook and YouTube tutorials sounds credible, but in reality, dentist don't use rubber bands and made up wires to close the gap between teeth. Those diy braces and retainers marketed are not regulated, because if they were, they would be nonexistent. There are cases when substandard materials used on diy braces lead to dental infection and teeth loss.

There are just so many dentist wannabe out there.

If, for some reason, which may be due to price disparity, you still feel empower to put on your very own diy braces, then, you have nothing to fear but yourself. I mean, how bad can you be?

Have you seen those diy stuffs people did which turn out to be a complete nightmare. What's the chance that this diy brace thing can end up badly? If you search "diy braces gone wrong" then you'll have a good idea how bad this thing is. It can cost you more than what you've bargained for.

What can be more terrifying than loosing your teeth because of your own stupid dental decision to try a do-it-yourself brace?

Besides, I'm not putting all the blame on you for making diy braces and retainers such a terrible idea. For ages, humans have tried what seems like crazy and unbelievable stuffs for the sake of aesthetic and beauty. We can all be victims of our impulse, peer pressure, and sheer lack of ignorance. Furthermore, real dental work can be really expensive. Shouldn't diy braces have a silver lining, even just a tiny hope to make your smile perfect?

I know you're broke, but want your teeth fixed. I know you can't afford to go to the dentist but, let's just answer the very thing this blog post is supposed to answer: Are DIY Braces and Retainers Safe? The answer is still a "No!"

We'll, I guess there's a really a doctor in each one of us, which can be really horrifying.

Did you know that you can actually file a lawsuit on someone for medical malpractice? Yeah, that's right. Now you know that not everyone can legally practice dentistry.

Hey, since we're on the topic of putting the blame on somebody, why don't we blame the manufacturers and sellers of diy braces and retainers. Why do this product have to exist in the first place?

It is incredible how DIY Braces is such a huge industry. Why wouldn’t it be when it’s generally unsafe, ineffective, illegal, and best of all, it's cheap.

If you can't afford to buy a diy brace kit, then at it's simplest form, all you need is a good 'ol rubber band and a tooth of your choice that you'd like to sacrifice. Yep, because you're more likely not gonna fix anything.

#diybraces